Great Indian Religion

Author(s): G T Bettany
Publisher: Ward Lock Bowden and Co

Page 54

42 THE BRAHMANISM OF THE CODES. versal Soul, and will ultimately be absorbed once more in the same. The whole philosophy is affected by the New births doctrine of transmigration of souls, new births
and hells. in the same or a lower order of creation or in hells being the result of evil conduct, and absorption in the Supreme Soul being the grand result of the greatest merit. The hells described, though terrible, are consequently only temporary. Among the torments are “ being devoured by ravens and owls, the heat of scorching sand, being boiled in jars," etc. Altogether, theology is largely absent from Manu. But it must be remembered that the constant study of the Veda is everywhere inculcated. There is scarcely any reference to public worship or to temples; and from its whole tone we see how the family was the keystone of the Brahmanic religion. The influence of the Brahmans over the domestic life of the people was profound and sufficient at the time when the code of Manu was composed.
The original castes are stated to be four, the Brahman, the Kshatriya or warrior, the Vaisya (cultivator), and the Duties of the Sudra or servant; and (as in the tenth book of four castes. the Rig Veda) they originated respectively from the mouth, arms, thighs, and feet of Brahma, who assigned them their separate duties. To Brahmans he assigned teaching and studying the Vedu, sacrificing for their own benefit and for others, and giving and accepting of alms; to Kshatriyas the protection of the people, the bestowal of gifts, the offering of sacrifices, the study of the Veda, and abstinence from sensual pleasures; to the Vaisyas tending cattle, the bestowal of gifts, the offering of sacrifices, the study of the Veda, trading, lending money, and the cultivation of land; to the Sudras simply to serve the other three.
The Brahman caste is exalted far above the others, having sprung from the mouth of Brahma, being the Lofty claims first-born, the preserver of the Veda, and having
of the the right of expounding it. "What created Brahmans. being can surpass him, through whose mouth the gods continually consume the sacrificial viands and the offerings to the dead?” The most distinguished Brahman is he who fully performs his duty and knows